10 November 2012

Navy, Army and Air Force have converged on various Auckland locations this
week as part of Exercise Pae Tata.

The exercise which aims to develop the Defence Force’s
integrated amphibious capability, involves maritime, land, and air assets
working together to secure a point of entry, executing a beach landing.

HMNZS MANAWANUI, HMNZS TAUPO, a headquarters element and
Enhanced Infantry Company (EIC) from 1 RNZIR, a Special Forces Task Element, a
RNZN Operational Diving Team Detachment, and a RNZAF P3K and C130 detachment
are taking part in the exercise, from 5-16 November.

HMAS TOBRUK, a Royal Australian Navy Landing Ship Heavy, is
also playing a role in the exercise, further developing ANZAC interoperability.

Exercise Pae Tata 2012 is an opportunity to develop the
Defence Force’s emerging Joint Amphibious Task Force capability, building on
from our experiences earlier this year on Exercise Alam Halfa and RIMPAC, says
Commander Joint Forces New Zealand, Major General Dave Gawn.

“The Joint Amphibious Task Force will allow the NZ Defence
Force to effectively respond to any contingencies in the South Pacific, working
alongside our Pacific neighbours.

“Interoperability is a crucial part of the Joint Amphibious
Task Force capability, where the Defence Force will be able to integrate with
and operate alongside our partners in the South Pacific or further a-field.”

As part of Exercise Pae Tata 2012, amphibious trainers from
the UK
will also deliver an amphibious warfare training package.

Exercise Pae Tata is a precursor to Exercise Southern Katipo
2013, a major amphibious exercise which will be based in New Zealand and involve a range of
international participants.